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Home
She had done the unthinkable. Left her life behind and deserted her loved ones. Shamed the words mother, woman, wife. All titles she had once defined herself by.
Charlie Sutton knew she was a terrible person, but she hadn't planned to be like that. Now a cruel twist of fate has opened a way for her to come back, given her a chance to right her wrongs. She had to go home, the very home she had left, the very same home she had destroyed. There would be no warm welcome, only questions that she would need to answer. Sometimes coming home was harder than staying away...
Please note this novel has adult themes and reference to the effects of depression and self-harm.
Charlie Sutton knew she was a terrible person, but she hadn't planned to be like that. Now a cruel twist of fate has opened a way for her to come back, given her a chance to right her wrongs. She had to go home, the very home she had left, the very same home she had destroyed. There would be no warm welcome, only questions that she would need to answer. Sometimes coming home was harder than staying away...
Please note this novel has adult themes and reference to the effects of depression and self-harm.
- GenresMental HealthRomance
459 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2017
15 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 3, 2017
Wowww!!!
I l-o-v-e-d this story beyond words. While I wouldn’t necessarily classify Home as a romance, it is a romance at its core. This is a story about the power of forgiveness and second chances in the midst of so much adversity. How Charlotte Sutton was able to bounce back after everything she’d endured from birth to the last page of this story is still beyond me…
Charlotte “Charlie” Sutton is a woman in transition (not that transition…). She literally abandoned her husband and kids with no rhyme or reason and, and from the moment she returns home after receiving a heart-stopping phone call, she’s been making restitution-with her husband, her kids, but more importantly, herself. What kind of woman does that? It’s so easy to be on the outside looking in and passing judgment, but Home really delves into what a woman goes through when dealing with postpartum depression. And not only that, Charlie has to deal with a bitter, resentful husband, a sick son whose afraid she’s going to leave him again, a son who doesn’t even know or trust her, and the fact that her husband moved on with his life, if you know what I mean. Whew…
Alec Sutton had the perfect life. Or so he thought. He and Charlie were teenage loves, married young, and had children young. He was the doting husband and father until Charlie did the inconceivable then ran away instead of facing her issues with him as a couple. For three years, he’s been consumed with anger, confusion, and a sense of abandonment, all while raising two precocious little boys, running a restaurant, and cultivating a romantic relationship. When Charlie returns, whew…
This story could’ve been a huge mess with everything that’s constantly going on, but it’s just the opposite. It’s completely engrossing and so well executed throughout. For American readers, Home is about a British couple and their lives, so naturally, you will get real British flavor throughout. The vernacular is completely British and totally charming to this westerner. I highly recommend this story. You will fall in love and root for Charlie and Alec and their two boys, Olly and Jamie.
I l-o-v-e-d this story beyond words. While I wouldn’t necessarily classify Home as a romance, it is a romance at its core. This is a story about the power of forgiveness and second chances in the midst of so much adversity. How Charlotte Sutton was able to bounce back after everything she’d endured from birth to the last page of this story is still beyond me…
Charlotte “Charlie” Sutton is a woman in transition (not that transition…). She literally abandoned her husband and kids with no rhyme or reason and, and from the moment she returns home after receiving a heart-stopping phone call, she’s been making restitution-with her husband, her kids, but more importantly, herself. What kind of woman does that? It’s so easy to be on the outside looking in and passing judgment, but Home really delves into what a woman goes through when dealing with postpartum depression. And not only that, Charlie has to deal with a bitter, resentful husband, a sick son whose afraid she’s going to leave him again, a son who doesn’t even know or trust her, and the fact that her husband moved on with his life, if you know what I mean. Whew…
Alec Sutton had the perfect life. Or so he thought. He and Charlie were teenage loves, married young, and had children young. He was the doting husband and father until Charlie did the inconceivable then ran away instead of facing her issues with him as a couple. For three years, he’s been consumed with anger, confusion, and a sense of abandonment, all while raising two precocious little boys, running a restaurant, and cultivating a romantic relationship. When Charlie returns, whew…
This story could’ve been a huge mess with everything that’s constantly going on, but it’s just the opposite. It’s completely engrossing and so well executed throughout. For American readers, Home is about a British couple and their lives, so naturally, you will get real British flavor throughout. The vernacular is completely British and totally charming to this westerner. I highly recommend this story. You will fall in love and root for Charlie and Alec and their two boys, Olly and Jamie.
April 21, 2017
Girls let me just say Y'all need to read this.
Omg what an epic story this was! Epic I tell you Epic! I love loved loved it! Can I give it a billion stars?
New fav author on my list of favs! I love finding new jewels. She pulled me with the first paragraph of heroines son getting a message to her to come home because he needed her.
This story is so close to my heart I loved the realness of it. This book was truth and damn if these characters don’t remind you a lil of your own self, I know I saw a lot of me in Charlie and Alec in my husband.
I’m a romance fiction lover of all types. But I love the romance fiction that is realistic and touches my heartstrings and that will keep me thinking about that story forever. This story is bloody brilliant!
I recommend this epic story to all my goodreads buddies. This story will tear your heart out and put it right back together. This story had me with all the emotions. I laughed and cried and got angry and it was all justifiable. As a mother and a wife or husband you will definitely appreciate and enjoy this journey of this family as they go through there trials and tribulations and hold it altogether by that important thing that’s unfortunately slipping from this worlds fingers…love. That’s right people love forgiveness is key! These two worked at coming back together and sticking together fighting the big fight for love and life .
Heres my couple happy reading!!
Omg what an epic story this was! Epic I tell you Epic! I love loved loved it! Can I give it a billion stars?
New fav author on my list of favs! I love finding new jewels. She pulled me with the first paragraph of heroines son getting a message to her to come home because he needed her.
This story is so close to my heart I loved the realness of it. This book was truth and damn if these characters don’t remind you a lil of your own self, I know I saw a lot of me in Charlie and Alec in my husband.
I’m a romance fiction lover of all types. But I love the romance fiction that is realistic and touches my heartstrings and that will keep me thinking about that story forever. This story is bloody brilliant!
I recommend this epic story to all my goodreads buddies. This story will tear your heart out and put it right back together. This story had me with all the emotions. I laughed and cried and got angry and it was all justifiable. As a mother and a wife or husband you will definitely appreciate and enjoy this journey of this family as they go through there trials and tribulations and hold it altogether by that important thing that’s unfortunately slipping from this worlds fingers…love. That’s right people love forgiveness is key! These two worked at coming back together and sticking together fighting the big fight for love and life .
Heres my couple happy reading!!
February 8, 2017
This is my second book by this author. This is a long read and I found the story totally engrossing.
This is Charlie and Alex's story. The condition that Charlie suffered from is one I can relate to because I also suffered from it. It is very difficult to explain it to others and you can only truly empathise with Charlie if you have experienced this condition. It totally changed my personality for a while and no-one would medicate me because they thought it would make it worse. Its a condition that causes others to judge you because they don't understand what you are going through.
This is a story of real life issues and what can happen when you find your happy ever after but the circumstances of life, every day life comes and tests that true bliss. Can a loving relationship stand the tests that life throws at it? This is a story of hurt, forgiveness, understanding, love and recovery.
I thought the author did a great job of portraying what can happen to women as they fulfil the fairy tale of love, the white picket fence and the illusion that the process of having children is wonderful for everyone.
Definitely worth a read.
This is Charlie and Alex's story. The condition that Charlie suffered from is one I can relate to because I also suffered from it. It is very difficult to explain it to others and you can only truly empathise with Charlie if you have experienced this condition. It totally changed my personality for a while and no-one would medicate me because they thought it would make it worse. Its a condition that causes others to judge you because they don't understand what you are going through.
This is a story of real life issues and what can happen when you find your happy ever after but the circumstances of life, every day life comes and tests that true bliss. Can a loving relationship stand the tests that life throws at it? This is a story of hurt, forgiveness, understanding, love and recovery.
I thought the author did a great job of portraying what can happen to women as they fulfil the fairy tale of love, the white picket fence and the illusion that the process of having children is wonderful for everyone.
Definitely worth a read.
July 9, 2020
I enjoyed this book. Granted, around half way, I had to take a break by reading another book. But, I came back, didn’t I? K. Carr writes it in such a way that I got invested in the characters. I want to know what was going to happen to them.
Throughout the book, I was constantly anticipating, the author really knows how to put you on edge.
Speaking of characters, I absolutely loved Jamie and Olly. #Cuteness overload. As I was reading, I constantly glanced further down my kindle or pressed the button to glance at the next page to see if their names would appear so that I can know when their scenes are coming.
The way Carr touched on the main issue, it didn’t comes off as clinical. It was educational and interesting.
Something I especially liked was how some scenes faded to black. And the very short time jump. Like days later or weeks later. They were all very well placed so the author doesn’t focus on boring and ‘novel lengthening’ scenes. That being said, I hated when scenes with the kids faded to black. They are so curious and funny. It’s adorable! :)
The dialogues in this book were everything. I never got bored. Sometimes, there are ‘background action’ as the main dialogue is going on. Like when Alec and Charlie are talking and the kids are up to something in the background. The way the author subtly highlights it while giving the main dialogue the main focus is so amazing. It makes it so realistic. She really is an artist because she paints the picture of each scene in my head so perfectly.
Now, Alec and Charlie. I loved their chemistry, their connection, their dialogues. All realistic and beautiful and cute. Sometimes, things get a bit harsh but like I said, realistic.
I will read more books from this author.
Throughout the book, I was constantly anticipating, the author really knows how to put you on edge.
Speaking of characters, I absolutely loved Jamie and Olly. #Cuteness overload. As I was reading, I constantly glanced further down my kindle or pressed the button to glance at the next page to see if their names would appear so that I can know when their scenes are coming.
The way Carr touched on the main issue, it didn’t comes off as clinical. It was educational and interesting.
Something I especially liked was how some scenes faded to black. And the very short time jump. Like days later or weeks later. They were all very well placed so the author doesn’t focus on boring and ‘novel lengthening’ scenes. That being said, I hated when scenes with the kids faded to black. They are so curious and funny. It’s adorable! :)
The dialogues in this book were everything. I never got bored. Sometimes, there are ‘background action’ as the main dialogue is going on. Like when Alec and Charlie are talking and the kids are up to something in the background. The way the author subtly highlights it while giving the main dialogue the main focus is so amazing. It makes it so realistic. She really is an artist because she paints the picture of each scene in my head so perfectly.
Now, Alec and Charlie. I loved their chemistry, their connection, their dialogues. All realistic and beautiful and cute. Sometimes, things get a bit harsh but like I said, realistic.
I will read more books from this author.
February 26, 2017
Applause, Applause, Applause!!! I love when an author goes against the norm. An author willing to take chances with storytelling.This is my third book written by Carr and I remain impressed. "Home " was beautiful. I absolutely loved it
April 22, 2018
10 Stars
Charlie gets a phone call from her son Oliver who she hasn't seen in three years. Oliver has leukemia, and he needs his mother. Charlie immediately drops her nomadic lifestyle and hops on a plane back to England to see her sons and her estranged husband, Alec. As expected, her unexpected reappearance back into their lives throws a monkey wrench of epic proportions into their hard-earned, routine lifestyle. Alec makes it very, very clear he doesn't trust her and certainly doesn't trust her around their children. Her youngest son doesn't know who she is and Alec's girlfriend of two years wants him to divorce her -- asap. What she does have is the unconditional love of her oldest son and the love of her husband's parents.
With the life of Oliver at stake, Charlie must face the pain of possibly losing her child as well as confront the pain her past actions (after having Jamie) has caused her family. She knows she has to pay the huge debt of atonement and what she endures to get to the other side is worth it to be the mother her children deserve. This is not your typical love story. It's a story about family, bad decisions, real life issues and how you handle yourself, your life when bad things happen that's not easily resolved by taking a pill. Highly Recommend. Read It!
Charlie gets a phone call from her son Oliver who she hasn't seen in three years. Oliver has leukemia, and he needs his mother. Charlie immediately drops her nomadic lifestyle and hops on a plane back to England to see her sons and her estranged husband, Alec. As expected, her unexpected reappearance back into their lives throws a monkey wrench of epic proportions into their hard-earned, routine lifestyle. Alec makes it very, very clear he doesn't trust her and certainly doesn't trust her around their children. Her youngest son doesn't know who she is and Alec's girlfriend of two years wants him to divorce her -- asap. What she does have is the unconditional love of her oldest son and the love of her husband's parents.
With the life of Oliver at stake, Charlie must face the pain of possibly losing her child as well as confront the pain her past actions (after having Jamie) has caused her family. She knows she has to pay the huge debt of atonement and what she endures to get to the other side is worth it to be the mother her children deserve. This is not your typical love story. It's a story about family, bad decisions, real life issues and how you handle yourself, your life when bad things happen that's not easily resolved by taking a pill. Highly Recommend. Read It!
January 15, 2022
Ms.K. Carrrrrr,
You are a mind-blowingly, ridiculously amazing author. I feel as though I cheated myself by deciding to put off reading this because of the premise - but in true K. Carr style you hit the ball out of this world and into the universe beyond.
I'm talking about originality meeting depth (a readers paradise)
I'm talking about a hero to die for
I'm talking about the real dirt - no filters
I'm talking about kids that weren't superlatively too much (thereby rubbing us the romance) no ma'am they were consistently adequate
I'm talking about a plot soooo rich and creamy in everyway that it took me six days to savour it.
I'm talking about superb character development (even Bunny's character was consistent and rich)
Even Vanessa was worth her grain in salt
Babe, you are it for me!!!
The romance was so real, I wanted to vaporize Alec, put him in a bottle and spray him on me till I leave this earth! Pheeewwwww!
This is talent on a different level and Home was worth every dime, just as Lover's dance 1&2
Thank you for this!
Encore!
Encore!!
Encore!!!
You are a mind-blowingly, ridiculously amazing author. I feel as though I cheated myself by deciding to put off reading this because of the premise - but in true K. Carr style you hit the ball out of this world and into the universe beyond.
I'm talking about originality meeting depth (a readers paradise)
I'm talking about a hero to die for
I'm talking about the real dirt - no filters
I'm talking about kids that weren't superlatively too much (thereby rubbing us the romance) no ma'am they were consistently adequate
I'm talking about a plot soooo rich and creamy in everyway that it took me six days to savour it.
I'm talking about superb character development (even Bunny's character was consistent and rich)
Even Vanessa was worth her grain in salt
Babe, you are it for me!!!
The romance was so real, I wanted to vaporize Alec, put him in a bottle and spray him on me till I leave this earth! Pheeewwwww!
This is talent on a different level and Home was worth every dime, just as Lover's dance 1&2
Thank you for this!
Encore!
Encore!!
Encore!!!
February 3, 2017
More than a love story...
This was a beautiful story. I always like to read books about married couples navigating the happy ever after, and this was an especially gripping tale.
High school sweethearts, Alec and Charlie spent 10 years together seemingly in marital bliss when two years after the birth of their second child, Charlie attempts to kill herself and is only saved from death by mere chance. The story picks up 3 years after this event; Charlie has abandoned her family, touring the globe trying to outrun her immense guilt and Alec by all appearances has moved on, but beneath the surface he is a man enraged.
This is a story of broken hearts mending, with a look into the ravages of childhood illnesses and postpartum depression.
Definitely Recommended Reading!
This was a beautiful story. I always like to read books about married couples navigating the happy ever after, and this was an especially gripping tale.
High school sweethearts, Alec and Charlie spent 10 years together seemingly in marital bliss when two years after the birth of their second child, Charlie attempts to kill herself and is only saved from death by mere chance. The story picks up 3 years after this event; Charlie has abandoned her family, touring the globe trying to outrun her immense guilt and Alec by all appearances has moved on, but beneath the surface he is a man enraged.
This is a story of broken hearts mending, with a look into the ravages of childhood illnesses and postpartum depression.
Definitely Recommended Reading!
April 22, 2018
I am a sucker when it comes to overly emotional romances, and this one really brought on the water works. And I loved it!! Charlie after three years has finally stopped running from a near fatal lapse caused by her post partum syndrome. Now she must face the consequences of her actions and the husband and children she left behind. But the reunion is a painful one as her eldest son is going through chemotherapy treatments and a bone marrow transplant. And her estranged husband is now dating another woman since her absence. She must deal with the pain, anger and hurt she's caused upon the only man she's ever loved. This story highlighted the importance of seeking help for mental health issues and how they affect not just one person, but a family. And I just adored Charlie and Alec's relationship, even through the rough patches they had.The whole thing was a delightful read especially because Jaime and Olly were so lovable. I don't want to ruin any reading enjoyment, but I'd give it ten stars if I could. But I definitely recommend this as one of my top favorites reads this year.
February 2, 2017
K. Carr doesn't an excellent job in this story. This was not a soap opera filled story with elaborate ex's and parents plotting on the couple. This story was about how to deal with mental health issues especially when you have an extremely sick child. The author does a great job of creating realistic characters that many people can relate too. Even though the story was complete, I would love to learn more about Charlie's parents.
May 7, 2017
Beautifully told love story that felt so REAL...and made me FEEL... Amazing read that will certainly go down as a favorite for me. Don't hesitate on this one!
July 30, 2017
A Beautiful and powerful story that addresses mental health issues. I started out not seeing how I could possibly enjoy this story but as it turns out, this could be one of the best stories I've read this year.
April 14, 2017
I was nervous to read this book because I’m uncomfortable with the dour subject matter surrounding the storyline. I held so many reservations wondering how this author would tackle this medical condition and center it around a story. With that being said I'm happy to aver that the author knocked it out the park and went above and beyond all my expectations. She had added another notch to my readers delighted heart even more.
This is story about Alec and Charlie two teenaged lovers who eventually married and started a family early on in their marriage.
From the outset we learned minuscule details about Charlie and why she left her family. At first I lathe her and couldn't sympathize with her actions but could of understand Alec's riled attitude towards her. Alec lashed out at Charlie (and as anyone in his position would) because the woman not only broke his heart, but left him to parent two young kids without looking back.
But as the story continues onwards we learned in great lengths and details why she went away. And then you felt her pain, her anguish, her guilt and her regrets. And even though so many time had passed and everyone had moved on, Charlie still loved Alec.
But will Alec forgive Charlie? How does he get passed such a betrayal? Can time erased the anger Alec felt when she left "HOME"? These were questions I kept asking myself as I turned the page.
There's a scene, In chapter 3 where the oldest son (Oliver) woke up and didn't see Charlie. He asked his dad if His mom had left him again, that pretty much, tugged at my heartstrings. And then it happened, and this is where the brilliancy of Ms. Carr writing took over, I started to root for the family to be put back together again.
The characters in this book are relatable and you genuinely feel for them through all their triumphant times and pitiful fools. It was so easy to be drawn in by such humanizing characters (Alec & Charlie) who found themselves facing fear and grief, yet they managed to find peace and happiness in the arms of each other.
What I love about Home, besides the spectacular writing from Ms. K. Carr, is that it renders a fresh and different take on family abandonment issues, love that last forever even when it shouldn't, and that family is sometimes all you got. She displayed so eloquently her strengths as a writer, by sustaining the two well mannered adults by humbling them to see where they went wrong and how they could harsh things out openly and honestly.
There is no question that Ms K. Carr have artfully mastered the craftsmanship of writing her characters by showing their many layers, then chip away their hard exterior bit by bit. She also have knack of showing each character flaws early on. She manage to once again produce a story full of bright characters and give a vivid descriptions of place, names and things, while leaving plenty of room for the reader to create their own interpretations of what's going on each other's head.
I can’t wait to read whatever she puts out next. This author, no doubt have ruin me. When it's been hard for me to luxuriate in some of these mediocre books that's out right now, Ms Carr have excel and set forth a new bar.
The dynamics in this book reminds you so much of a family where it feels like your own aliveness. "Home" was a wonderful, suspenseful, spectacular, and overall emotional read.
Please get this book, you will not be disappointed.
This is story about Alec and Charlie two teenaged lovers who eventually married and started a family early on in their marriage.
From the outset we learned minuscule details about Charlie and why she left her family. At first I lathe her and couldn't sympathize with her actions but could of understand Alec's riled attitude towards her. Alec lashed out at Charlie (and as anyone in his position would) because the woman not only broke his heart, but left him to parent two young kids without looking back.
But as the story continues onwards we learned in great lengths and details why she went away. And then you felt her pain, her anguish, her guilt and her regrets. And even though so many time had passed and everyone had moved on, Charlie still loved Alec.
But will Alec forgive Charlie? How does he get passed such a betrayal? Can time erased the anger Alec felt when she left "HOME"? These were questions I kept asking myself as I turned the page.
There's a scene, In chapter 3 where the oldest son (Oliver) woke up and didn't see Charlie. He asked his dad if His mom had left him again, that pretty much, tugged at my heartstrings. And then it happened, and this is where the brilliancy of Ms. Carr writing took over, I started to root for the family to be put back together again.
The characters in this book are relatable and you genuinely feel for them through all their triumphant times and pitiful fools. It was so easy to be drawn in by such humanizing characters (Alec & Charlie) who found themselves facing fear and grief, yet they managed to find peace and happiness in the arms of each other.
What I love about Home, besides the spectacular writing from Ms. K. Carr, is that it renders a fresh and different take on family abandonment issues, love that last forever even when it shouldn't, and that family is sometimes all you got. She displayed so eloquently her strengths as a writer, by sustaining the two well mannered adults by humbling them to see where they went wrong and how they could harsh things out openly and honestly.
There is no question that Ms K. Carr have artfully mastered the craftsmanship of writing her characters by showing their many layers, then chip away their hard exterior bit by bit. She also have knack of showing each character flaws early on. She manage to once again produce a story full of bright characters and give a vivid descriptions of place, names and things, while leaving plenty of room for the reader to create their own interpretations of what's going on each other's head.
I can’t wait to read whatever she puts out next. This author, no doubt have ruin me. When it's been hard for me to luxuriate in some of these mediocre books that's out right now, Ms Carr have excel and set forth a new bar.
The dynamics in this book reminds you so much of a family where it feels like your own aliveness. "Home" was a wonderful, suspenseful, spectacular, and overall emotional read.
Please get this book, you will not be disappointed.
February 7, 2017
Loved it, loved it. It's always good to read about couples and real life situations. This is about Charlie (Charlotte) and Alec Sutton (high school sweethearts). The story starts of with Charlie coming back home after getting word that her oldest son is sick in hospital, having left her husband (Alec) and 2 children (Olly and Jamie) 3 years prior.
Charlie suffered from Post Natal Depression (PND). She left to get herself better. Things ain't easy when she gets back. Her husband has a girlfriend, her oldest son is in hospital and her youngest doesn't remember her.
I loved Alec, loved it when he poured out his heart on what it felt like to be left behind, how it felt that his own wife couldn't even tell him what she was suffering, the anger of being left behind to raise 2 children on his own and to deal with their restaurant, the humiliation, the looks, the gossip.
I loved Charlie too. The fact that she came back home and stayed to face the music and took responsibility for her actions and was willing to try again despite being a bit scared that things might repeat themselves.
Life isn't perfect, this book shows that. No matter how much love, support you have/give, some things can't be cured but it helps when you have love, support and understanding from loved ones.
There's a lot more that I can say but it's better if you read it - 5 lovely stars
Ps - sorry sorry I had to come back and include this, I loved it how Alec wasn't rich, that this book showed the struggle he had financially with the restaurant.
Charlie suffered from Post Natal Depression (PND). She left to get herself better. Things ain't easy when she gets back. Her husband has a girlfriend, her oldest son is in hospital and her youngest doesn't remember her.
I loved Alec, loved it when he poured out his heart on what it felt like to be left behind, how it felt that his own wife couldn't even tell him what she was suffering, the anger of being left behind to raise 2 children on his own and to deal with their restaurant, the humiliation, the looks, the gossip.
I loved Charlie too. The fact that she came back home and stayed to face the music and took responsibility for her actions and was willing to try again despite being a bit scared that things might repeat themselves.
Life isn't perfect, this book shows that. No matter how much love, support you have/give, some things can't be cured but it helps when you have love, support and understanding from loved ones.
There's a lot more that I can say but it's better if you read it - 5 lovely stars
Ps - sorry sorry I had to come back and include this, I loved it how Alec wasn't rich, that this book showed the struggle he had financially with the restaurant.
April 15, 2017
Conflicted
I was very reluctant in getting this book..it's a sore subject for...the idea a mother can leave her children behind...takeoff and lead a full life without a single thought about the broken bonds ...the lack of maternal instincts..the fear and loathing that her loved ones are going through..they blame themselves..the children suffers irreparable mental harm..knowing that the mother chose to leave...rejecting them...it's the worst feeling a child can have...like I said..sore subject for...but the writer does an excellent job of explaining Charlotte psychological breakdown...she was a fractured and abandoned child who grew up in the foster care system and even though she met the love of her life...and had beautiful children and a beautiful life..she was suffering from a mental disorder and depression....Alec as a husband deserves a gold medal...actually several of them...he was the glue that held the family together..never giving up... never surrendering to the easy choices..wow..what a beautiful man..
I was very reluctant in getting this book..it's a sore subject for...the idea a mother can leave her children behind...takeoff and lead a full life without a single thought about the broken bonds ...the lack of maternal instincts..the fear and loathing that her loved ones are going through..they blame themselves..the children suffers irreparable mental harm..knowing that the mother chose to leave...rejecting them...it's the worst feeling a child can have...like I said..sore subject for...but the writer does an excellent job of explaining Charlotte psychological breakdown...she was a fractured and abandoned child who grew up in the foster care system and even though she met the love of her life...and had beautiful children and a beautiful life..she was suffering from a mental disorder and depression....Alec as a husband deserves a gold medal...actually several of them...he was the glue that held the family together..never giving up... never surrendering to the easy choices..wow..what a beautiful man..
February 26, 2017
When I first read the synopsis of this novel, I wasn't interested. In fact, I was enraged. I vowed to never read it. I did so reluctantly, but with a hefty dose of skepticism. I would NOT like, respect, or pity any woman who abandoned her husband and children. In fact, my interest was piqued because I wanted to witness her damnation.
I have never been more wrong about a book in my life. Home is unexpected, the characters not at all what I predicted. K Carr builds a story where the lines between right or wrong are blurred. The victim and perpetrator aren’t easy to identify, as no one is totally blameless.
This is real life. Nothing is sugar-coated or overdramatized. Home is an amazing read and an engrossing story about the realities of what it means to truly love someone and the winding road to true forgiveness.
I have never been more wrong about a book in my life. Home is unexpected, the characters not at all what I predicted. K Carr builds a story where the lines between right or wrong are blurred. The victim and perpetrator aren’t easy to identify, as no one is totally blameless.
This is real life. Nothing is sugar-coated or overdramatized. Home is an amazing read and an engrossing story about the realities of what it means to truly love someone and the winding road to true forgiveness.
March 1, 2017
I returned it...I just couldn't finish it.
The book was set in London and the character used English slang and saying that I really didn't understand and after a while I was so confused I gave up
The book was set in London and the character used English slang and saying that I really didn't understand and after a while I was so confused I gave up
November 1, 2018
Moderately realistic depiction of everyday family life, childhood illnesses and post-natal depression, however, this work was a very long, unimaginative and Dull read.
January 4, 2023
WOW. An honest story of love, not just between a couple, but, of and between a whole family. Sometimes laugh out loud, oftentimes heartwrenching, but always real. I don't think I've ever read a "romance" that really felt as if it could truly be the narrative of a real couple and their family. The dialogue, the emotions, the experiences, the day to day mundane... so realistic. I think this may be because I have never felt so in tune with a character like I did with Charlie. She was/is me, albeit with an affinity to numbers which I absolutely don't have!
I really wanted to hate Charlie for what she put her family through, for such a long period of time, but despite her actions being so seemingly selfish, I understood where she was coming from. And whilst I felt enormous frustration at her ability to stay gone from her loved ones past her healing; being someone who very much identified with many of Charlie's personality traits, I could also understand why she allowed this to happen. At no time did I get the impression she was unaware of the effect of her absence had on her husband and kids, but once she was back with them, it took time for her to understand the extent of these effects. I had different sympathies for each person she left behind, her husband Alec, her elder son Olly and her younger son Jamie.
The mental health issue that Charlie was afflicted with was dealt with sensitively and with a quiet dignity and grace, that made my heart ache and my tears flow, but the story got me from the get-go was Olly and the reason why Charlie is suddenly reunited with her family.
I also loved that it was unapologetically British in language, and felt so much like "home" in amongst the majority US fiction that I find myself drawn to for the most part.
This is a book that discusses, in detail, heavy topics. But it's one that should be talked about honestly and openly much more than it is. This book should also be given to all the men in our lives to read; our other halves, our brothers, our friends, our dads etc because in order to support us through these trying and sometimes almost deadly times, they need to know about some things just as much as the women who go through them do. ...
I really wanted to hate Charlie for what she put her family through, for such a long period of time, but despite her actions being so seemingly selfish, I understood where she was coming from. And whilst I felt enormous frustration at her ability to stay gone from her loved ones past her healing; being someone who very much identified with many of Charlie's personality traits, I could also understand why she allowed this to happen. At no time did I get the impression she was unaware of the effect of her absence had on her husband and kids, but once she was back with them, it took time for her to understand the extent of these effects. I had different sympathies for each person she left behind, her husband Alec, her elder son Olly and her younger son Jamie.
The mental health issue that Charlie was afflicted with was dealt with sensitively and with a quiet dignity and grace, that made my heart ache and my tears flow, but the story got me from the get-go was Olly and the reason why Charlie is suddenly reunited with her family.
I also loved that it was unapologetically British in language, and felt so much like "home" in amongst the majority US fiction that I find myself drawn to for the most part.
This is a book that discusses, in detail, heavy topics. But it's one that should be talked about honestly and openly much more than it is. This book should also be given to all the men in our lives to read; our other halves, our brothers, our friends, our dads etc because in order to support us through these trying and sometimes almost deadly times, they need to know about some things just as much as the women who go through them do. ...
July 12, 2019
Excellent
I’ve read this book probably 3 times by now and still love it. First of all, it’s rare to read an interracial novel written in British English quasi slang. It warms my hart. Also the author managed to depict the joy of family life to a T. The scenes jump of the pages. The difficulties around post natal depression were well documented but in a non clinical way. The characters were great. Alec was probably one of the best male characters that I’ve read about in a long time. The depth of his love for his wife and his family together with his capacity and willingness to forgive was humbling. Charlie was an interesting heroine too. Smart, loving but with insecurities stemming from her chaotic upbringing. The secondary cast was great too. Alec’s parents were the doting grandparents but also a source of strength and a great help to the couple and their kids. They could have contributed to a difficult return but instead were helpful and kind. Harry was the best friend everyone would like to have. Her foster parents were not on my cool list because although Alec got really upset with Sean, they are the ones I would have really got upset with. Not giving Alec a way to contact her was low. Sean was also a great friend, who was there for Charlie in a difficult time and even now helping her with a great source of income. Contrary to what Alec’s thought I believe Sean thought of Charlie as a daughter and is secretly grooming her to take over his business. Can wait for Ms Karr next book.
I’ve read this book probably 3 times by now and still love it. First of all, it’s rare to read an interracial novel written in British English quasi slang. It warms my hart. Also the author managed to depict the joy of family life to a T. The scenes jump of the pages. The difficulties around post natal depression were well documented but in a non clinical way. The characters were great. Alec was probably one of the best male characters that I’ve read about in a long time. The depth of his love for his wife and his family together with his capacity and willingness to forgive was humbling. Charlie was an interesting heroine too. Smart, loving but with insecurities stemming from her chaotic upbringing. The secondary cast was great too. Alec’s parents were the doting grandparents but also a source of strength and a great help to the couple and their kids. They could have contributed to a difficult return but instead were helpful and kind. Harry was the best friend everyone would like to have. Her foster parents were not on my cool list because although Alec got really upset with Sean, they are the ones I would have really got upset with. Not giving Alec a way to contact her was low. Sean was also a great friend, who was there for Charlie in a difficult time and even now helping her with a great source of income. Contrary to what Alec’s thought I believe Sean thought of Charlie as a daughter and is secretly grooming her to take over his business. Can wait for Ms Karr next book.
January 27, 2018
The third book for my read harder 2018 challenge. I would never normally read a romance, but the challenge is all about broadening horizons.
K Carr is a lovely author, her book just flows. It’s so easy to read and for the most part, quite a relaxing easy going read.
That said, it took me ten days to finish which is unusual for me. The first few chapters - seeing Charlie return and find herself fighting for her children and marriage were good. But once her and Alec got back together I found it rushed and started to notice my main pet peeve about the book: how perfect everything was.
If it weren’t for Charlie’s mental health this family would be the most ridiculous family on earth. Or maybe just Charlie. The kids fight like normal kids, Alec had some flaws but Charlie was this unrealistic Mary-Sue and it was so offputting.
Charlie’s character is the reason this book looses a star for me. If she was a bit more real I’d have coped with the rushed second half.
Still! Enjoyable for a genre of book I normally wouldn’t read.
K Carr is a lovely author, her book just flows. It’s so easy to read and for the most part, quite a relaxing easy going read.
That said, it took me ten days to finish which is unusual for me. The first few chapters - seeing Charlie return and find herself fighting for her children and marriage were good. But once her and Alec got back together I found it rushed and started to notice my main pet peeve about the book: how perfect everything was.
If it weren’t for Charlie’s mental health this family would be the most ridiculous family on earth. Or maybe just Charlie. The kids fight like normal kids, Alec had some flaws but Charlie was this unrealistic Mary-Sue and it was so offputting.
Charlie’s character is the reason this book looses a star for me. If she was a bit more real I’d have coped with the rushed second half.
Still! Enjoyable for a genre of book I normally wouldn’t read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2017
WOW!!!!!!
This was one of the best stories I've read. Alec was a great and loving husband. I loved Charlie, Olly, Jamie and Alec's parents. They were all supportive. Thanks to the author. Look forward to reading your next book.
This was one of the best stories I've read. Alec was a great and loving husband. I loved Charlie, Olly, Jamie and Alec's parents. They were all supportive. Thanks to the author. Look forward to reading your next book.
July 21, 2017
What I liked about the book was that the characters were real. They had their ups and downs. Also, I thought Carr did an amazing job of portraying postpartum depression. It was a breakaway from the typical Happily Ever After ending that romances tend to have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2022
“A story for us lovers that have hornets in our heads.”
Characters and characterization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
World-building and setting:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Plot and development:⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐/5
Writing style:⭐⭐⭐/5
Overall score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Read my full review at
https://medium.com/@eurekamoments96/h...
Characters and characterization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
World-building and setting:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Plot and development:⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐/5
Writing style:⭐⭐⭐/5
Overall score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Read my full review at
https://medium.com/@eurekamoments96/h...
April 15, 2021
Fantastic book!!!Great writing and amazing real characters.
May 5, 2024
I couldn't care less about heroine.
July 25, 2025
This was a honest book about postpartum depression and how hard it can be to go through it. It shows the pain and guilt that come with leaving your family to protect them and how difficult that choice can be. It’s hard to know who to blame or if you can even blame anyone. And if you can’t, how do you forgive? The story feels real and was a good and meaningful read.
Also, not gonna lie, the use of the word shag threw me. Who even calls it that lol?
Also, not gonna lie, the use of the word shag threw me. Who even calls it that lol?
March 3, 2017
Highly recommend. Realistic characters, great writing, and a few unexpected. Throughout the book i wondered wheter Charlie will have a mental relapse, get divorce, and lose her son due to his illness.
February 22, 2017
Unexpected
This story was a good family drama that dealt with real issues. I thought this novel gave an interesting perspective on PPD. The story was covered well with a great ending.
This story was a good family drama that dealt with real issues. I thought this novel gave an interesting perspective on PPD. The story was covered well with a great ending.
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